Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is the largest district of South Korea. It is located on the banks of Han River. Being a popular tourist destination, it is complete in itself. It is well known for its modern architecture, splendid skyscraper buildings, delicious street food, the charming crowded market and the exotic Buddhist Temples. Korean Barbeque, Galbi, Green Tiramisu are some of the dishes that reflect the typical Korean culture. Also known for its sports, FC Seoul is the most popular Football Club of Seoul. It is a hub to the largest number of markets including Insadong, a traditional art market and Namdaemun market, which is the oldest market. There are around 115 museums in Seoul, depicting its rich folk history, traditions and unique architecture. Myeongdong Cathedral is the largest Catholic Church, symbolizing Roman Catholic culture in the Korean society. Besides this, you can also enjoy rides, malls, hiking, concerts, movies etc. at the theme park of Seoul. As education is considered most important in Seoul, it is also a hub of prestigious Universities of South Korea like Seoul National University and Korea University. This is a place worth to visit, once in a lifetime.

Location: It is located in the North-Western part of South Korea, on the river Han.

Climate: Seoul has sub-tropical humid climate. In summers, there is hot and humid climate whereas, winters are very cold.

Wear light cotton clothes in summers. In winters, you must carry long coats and heavy winter clothing.

Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November

How to reach:

By Air: Incheon International Airport

By Train: Seoul Station connects Seoul to most major cities of South Korea

By Bus: Good connectivity to most cities available

Places of Interest:

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Location: 161161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Timings: March to October- 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

November to February- 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Closed on Tuesday

Gyeongbokgung Palace is situated on the Northern part of Seoul. It was constructed in 1395. Initially, it belonged to the Joseon Dynasty, as its Royal Palace. It is the most beautiful and largest among the 5 Northern Palaces. National Folk Museum and National Palace Museum of Korea are also located inside the Palace Complex, but Imperial Japan demolished it in the 20th century. After that, it was reconstructed with Korean architectural principles. The word ‘Gyeongbokgung’ means ‘A place of shining happiness’ in English. A lot of foreign tourists come here to watch the changing of the Guards ceremony. This Palace Complex includes 330 exotic buildings. Gwanghwamun is the main gate of the palace. Woods and stones were used to build it. This entire structure is supported by 48 splendid stone pillars. It was adorned with sculptures, reflecting dragons etc. You will relish the beauty of the traditional Korean Gardens.

Myeongdong

Location: It is located at the Myeong-Dong Jungang-ro Intersection, Seoul, South Korea

Timings: Open every day in summers from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. In winters, open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Myeongdong is a splendid and popular place of Seoul. If you are a fashion lover, then this is the perfect place for you. Here, you can also enjoy mouth watering Korean food, delicious fast food along with refreshing Japanese and Western food. Dishes like Kalguksu and pork Cutlet are the specialty of this place. Mostly, people come here to buy cosmetics of famous Korean brands like Skin Food, The Face Hope and Etude House etc. From large shopping centers to International brands, you can find everything here. This beauteous place is a blend of theatres, cinemas, restaurants and hotels.

A festival named Myeongdong festival is also organized twice in a year, with varieties of sales and discounts offered at this time. Myeongdong Cathedral and Myeongdong-Nanta Theatre are the two historical famous sites. If you are interested in buying souvenirs, then you can buy it from street vendors here.

N Seoul Tower is situated on the Namsan mountain of Seoul. It is the highest point of Seoul and was constructed in 1971 and in 1980, it was opened for public. Korean media like KBC, MBC and TBS use it for broadcasting T.V. and radio signals. In its name ‘N’ symbolizes ‘Nature, Namsan and New’. The beautiful Revolving restaurant, the unique High powered telescope, the splendid Café, the charming food courts and souvenirs shops are some of the highlights of this place. On the 2nd floor of the tower, there is a ‘Wishing Pond’ and a place named ‘Locks of love’. Namsan cable car facility is also available for the visitors. N Tower, N lobby and N Plaza are the three major parts of the complex. Teddy Bear Museum is another interesting site here, reflecting different models of Teddy Bears. Latest LED technology is used to light up the tower, which enhances its beauty. No doubt, this is the site where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city Seoul. 36 L.C.D. screens fitted in the observatory show the splendid Korean culture and history.

Timings: Open at 9.30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Closing time can vary every day

Lotte World is a famous recreational spot of Seoul. It is known for its largest indoor Theme Park, shopping malls, Magic Island, theaters, hotels and Museum. Every year, about 7.3 million tourists visit here. There is an underground waterway, where you can enjoy boat ride with the Sindbad. There is an artificial Island named ‘The Magic Island’, where Atlantis Adventure, Roller Coaster, Ghost House, Swing Tree, Gyro Spin and the Monorail, which provide a thrilling experience. Lotty's Kid Storia, Boong Boong Car are some of the interesting rides for kids. Besides this, inside the magic theatre, the famous Korean illusionists and magicians showcase their skills.

Changdeokgung is located in Jongno-gu. It is the one, among the five palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. The fact that it integrates and harmonizes with the natural topography, is its unique feature. In 1917, it was designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dae jang geum, the popular Korean drama was shooted at this palace. Its architecture and design is very beautiful and eye catching. Donhwamun Gate is the main and the largest gate of the palace. There is a splendid garden with pavilions, trees, flowers and Lotus Pond behind the palace. This is the palace where Sunjong, Korea's last emperor passed away. Korean architectural styles, gardens, arts and landscape planning are greatly influenced by this place.